Kipling
VF Corporation · Belgium
Kipling is a Belgian bag brand founded in Antwerp in 1987, known for crinkle nylon bags and its monkey keychain. VF Corporation acquired it in June 2004 and still lists it in its portfolio.
| Founded | 1987 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Xavier Kegels, Paul Van De Velde and Vincent Haverbeke |
| Owner | VF Corporation (since 2004) |
| Headquarters | Antwerp, Belgium |
| Website | kipling.com |
What is Kipling?
Kipling is a bag and accessories brand from Antwerp, Belgium. It is known for lightweight crinkle nylon bags and a furry monkey keychain that became its signature.
History
Wikipedia credits the founding in 1987 to Xavier Kegels, who also founded Hedgren, and Paul Van De Velde, joined by Vincent Haverbeke. The brand was acquired by VF Corporation in June 2004.
Products and positioning
Kipling sells handbags, backpacks, totes, luggage, wallets, pouches, key hangers and schoolbags. Its positioning is colourful, practical and accessibly priced, which places it in the mid-market.
Ownership and distribution
Wikipedia says Kipling is sold in more than 80 countries and in more than 7,500 stores. VF Corporation's news page still lists Kipling among its brands in 2026.
In February 2023 a trade report said VF was looking for new owners for JanSport, Eastpak and Kipling, with no buyer named and no price disclosed. The sources reviewed do not show a completed sale, so VF is stated as the owner.
Why it matters
Kipling is one of the best-known European casual bag brands and part of a three-brand packs group, alongside Eastpak and JanSport, that VF has run together. Wikipedia lists kipling.com as the brand website but gives no detail on online sales or on current executives, so none are stated.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Kipling?
Kipling has been owned by VF Corporation since June 2004. A 2023 trade report said VF was seeking a buyer, but no completed sale was found in the sources reviewed.
Where is Kipling from?
Kipling is from Antwerp, Belgium, where it was founded in 1987.